TIDMSTCK
RNS Number : 1177X
Stock Spirits Group PLC
08 August 2018
Stock Spirits Group PLC
Results for the six months ended 30 June 2018
8 August 2018: Stock Spirits Group PLC ("Stock Spirits" or the
"Company" or the "Group"), a leading owner and producer of premium
branded spirits and liqueurs that are principally sold in Central
and Eastern Europe, announces its results for the six months ended
30 June 2018.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
-- Total revenue EUR124.1 million, an increase of +5.3% (2017:
EUR117.8 million restated for IFRS 15(1) )
-- Operating profit EUR18.0 million, an increase of +9.7% (2017: EUR16.5 million)
-- Profit after tax EUR12.7 million, an increase of +8.6% (2017: EUR11.7 million)
-- Basic EPS 6.38 EUR cents per share, an increase of +9.1% (2017: 5.85 EUR cents per share)
-- Interim dividend 2.50 EUR cents per ordinary share, an increase of 5.0% (2017: 2.38 EUR cents)
-- EBITDA(2) EUR23.4 million, an increase of 6.2% (2017: EUR22.0 million)
-- EBITDA margin increased from 18.7% to 18.9%
-- Leverage(3) at 0.67x; net debt reduced by EUR14.4 million
since December 2017 to EUR38.7 million
OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
-- Total sales volume slightly ahead at 5.8 million 9 litre cases (2017: 5.7 million)
-- Polish business now stabilised, delivering revenue and volume
share gain despite pricing remaining highly competitive
-- Significant new product development (NPD) investment in largest brands:
o Poland: re-launch of o dkowa de Luxe and Lubelska, a Stock
Prestige "World Cup" limited edition, and flavour extensions of
Lubelska and Saska
o Czech Republic: launch of Bo kov Republica
-- New distribution arrangement in place with Beam-Suntory in
the Czech Republic, alongside existing agreement with Diageo,
significantly strengthens Czech whisky portfolio
-- Distribution agreements signed with Quintessential Brands for Irish whiskey in key markets
Mirek Stachowicz, CEO of Stock Spirits Group, commented:
"In these six months we have delivered growth in volumes, sales
revenue, profit, and margins. Despite some challenges in our core
markets, and in particular the competitive pricing environment in
Poland, we believe that our ongoing focus on investment in our
brands, product innovation and premiumisation are working well and
we are well positioned to achieve further growth in the second half
of the year and beyond ."
Analyst Teach-in
There will be an Analyst Teach-In on Thursday 9 August 2018. If
you wish to attend, please contact Powerscourt on
stockspirits@powerscourt-group.com
Presentations will be available on the website
(https://www.stockspirits.com/investors) after commencement of this
session at 1pm.
For further information:
Stock Spirits Group
Paul Bal, Chief Financial Officer +44 (0) 1628 648 500
Powerscourt +44 (0) 207 250 1446
Rob Greening stockspirits@powerscourt-group.com
Lisa Kavanagh
A copy of this interim results announcement ("announcement") has
been posted on www.stockspirits.com. Investors can also address any
query to investorqueries@stockspirits.com.
Disclaimer
This announcement may contain statements which are not based on
current or historical fact and which are forward looking in nature.
These forward looking statements may reflect knowledge and
information available at the date of preparation of this
announcement and the Company undertakes no obligation to update
these forward looking statements. Such forward looking statements
are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties facing the
Group including, without limitation, those risks described in this
announcement, and other unknown future events and circumstances
which can cause results and developments to differ materially from
those anticipated. Nothing in this announcement should be construed
as a profit forecast.
This announcement contains inside information which is disclosed
in accordance with the Market Abuse Regulation.
Basis of Preparation
The financial information contained in these interim results
does not constitute statutory accounts of Stock Spirits Group PLC
within the meaning of Section 434 of the Companies Act 2006.
Statutory accounts for Stock Spirits Group PLC for the year ended
31 December 2017 were delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The
auditors have reported on the accounts, their report was:(i)
unqualified; (ii) did not include a reference to any matters to
which the auditor drew attention by way of emphasis without
qualifying their report; and (iii) did not constitute a statement
under Section 498(2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.
Notes to editors:
About Stock Spirits Group
Stock Spirits is one of Central and Eastern Europe's leading
branded spirits and liqueurs businesses, and offers a portfolio of
products that are rooted in local and regional heritage. With core
operations in Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Italy, Croatia
and Bosnia & Herzegovina, Stock also exports to more than 50
other countries worldwide. Global sales volumes currently total
over 100 million litres per year.
Stock has world class production facilities in Poland and the
Czech Republic and Germany, and its core brands include products
made to long-established recipes such as Stock 84 brandy, Fernet
Stock bitters and Limonce, as well as more recent creations like
Stock Prestige and o dkowa de Luxe vodkas.
Stock is listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange.
For the year ended 31 December 2017 it delivered total revenue of
EUR274.6m and operating profit before exceptional expenses of
EUR44.8m.
For more information please visit www.stockspirits.com.
INTERIM MANAGEMENT REPORT
Overview
We are pleased to deliver our interim results, which confirms
what we said earlier this year, that our Polish business has
stabilised and is slowly moving into growth. As a Group, we have
grown our volumes, our sales revenue, our profits and our margins.
As we have previously signalled, this is notwithstanding the
increased investment behind our brands. Our cash generation remains
strong, further strengthening the Group's financial position. This
progress has been organically-driven, leveraging the careful
investment we have put behind our brands and our capabilities.
Positive macroeconomic conditions in a number of our Central
European markets have provided further momentum.
The Polish business has produced solid top-line growth, with
volumes, market share and sales revenue growing. This has been
achieved in what continues to be a very competitive environment
without positive pricing development. Our commitment to our brand
portfolio, which has seen further investment in the period, has
enabled us to improve sales mix. This premiumisation is delivering
higher value, as seen through the ongoing success of Stock
Prestige, Poland's leading premium vodka. The Trade channel has
seen some regulatory developments relating to trading hours and
outlet licensing which, although negative for the Group, we do not
currently expect to have any material impact.
The Czech business also grew its top line. However, this market
has been impacted by certain dynamics in the Trade channel that
have tempered its profit growth. Firstly, some of our Trade
customers have altered long-established promotional strategies, now
choosing to focus on value rather than volume. This has been
accompanied by the launch of a number of private label offers. We
are confident that our strong brands in the Czech Republic will
eventually prevail, demonstrated by the success of recent new
product launches such as Bo kov Republica and Black Fox, especially
in premium On-Trade. Our Czech team has also successfully navigated
a number of regulatory issues, including the ban of rum ether. In
the period, we extended our partnership with Beam-Suntory to
include the Czech and Slovakian markets, alongside existing markets
in Poland, Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. This further
strengthens our leadership position in the market.
Italy remains a challenging market, but we are committed to a
turnaround in our performance, which we believe will provide a
better foundation for building a business of scale. Early signs of
our three-year programme to invest in the Keglevich brand are
encouraging, particularly in the digital space.
All other markets, (which include Slovakia, Bosnia &
Herzegovina and Croatia together with our export operations, and
the Baltic distillery), have performed ahead of our
expectations.
As planned, we continue to invest behind our Polish, Italian and
Czech brands. In Poland, this has included a relaunch of o dkowa de
Luxe to premiumise packaging and improve the taste profile, and the
multi-year programme of investment behind Keglevich, Italy's
leading vodka, which has in part been funded by further tactical
cost savings and by maintaining a "lean" culture. In Czech this
included the launch of the Bo kov Republica and Black Fox.
Our partners at Quintessential Brands Irish Whiskey Ltd are
progressing with the building of their distillery in Dublin with
the official opening planned for late 2018. Plans have been drawn
up to start distribution of certain brands in all of our key
markets. This is an important part of our strategy for further
participation in the growing whisky sub-category.
While the issues around bourbon tariffs have been well
publicised, during the period we have not experienced any adverse
impact, and do not anticipate a material impact in this calendar
year. This is something we will continue to monitor.
Our four-pillar strategy - i.e. focusing on Premiumisation,
Millennials, Digital and M&A - is providing us with a solid
framework for prioritising our resources and efforts in a focused
pursuit of further growth opportunities. This discipline is
critical, particularly until the pricing environment in Poland
becomes more favourable and provides additional contribution to our
delivery.
Today, we are announcing an interim dividend of 2.50 EUR cents
per share, representing an increase of 5.0% versus last year's
interim dividend of 2.38 EUR cents per share. This is consistent
with our aim of providing progressive dividends, whilst maintaining
our ability to build scale through potential future M&A. Our
robust balance sheet and continued strong cash generation provide
us with the capacity for strategic M&A, if opportunities
arise.
Given our previously announced change to a 30 September
reporting year-end, we will be reporting on our 9-month results to
30 September 2018 on Wednesday 5 December. At the same time, we
will report pro forma and unaudited 12 months results to 30
September 2018, with comparative pro forma unaudited results for
the 12 months to 30 September 2017. Based on the trading
performance during the first half of the year, the Group remains
well-placed to deliver a continued solid performance over this
period.
Market Performance(4) :
Poland
Revenue has grown on a reported basis by +5.0%, and on a
constant currency basis revenue is EUR67.1m versus EUR64.5m last
year (as restated for IFRS 15), or growth of +4.0%. Reported EBITDA
in H1 was EUR17.7m versus EUR16.9m last year. On a constant
currency basis EBITDA has increased by EUR0.6m, with margin of
26.4% slightly below last year (26.5% as restated for IFRS 15).
For the Polish market, total vodka market volumes declined by
-1.0% in the six months to end of June 2018 versus +1.2% last year.
The decline is driven by the contraction of the clear vodka market
by -3.0%, whilst flavoured vodka remains in growth (+5.3% to the
end of June). The value of the vodka market also declined versus
last YTD by -0.5% (2017: +1.5%), which is possibly a reflection of
the relatively higher temperatures experienced so far this year. In
marked contrast to the marginally declining overall vodka market,
Stock Polska achieved strong growth in both retail volume +7.3% and
retail value +5.3% YTD, and is now the fastest growing major player
in the vodka market by volume and value YTD.
Pricing of our products remains a key priority, and has been
closely monitored to ensure that our brands and pack sizes remain
competitive across all Trade channels. There has been no increase
YTD in mainstream clear vodka market pricing. Our focus during the
period has been on execution in the Trade channels, to ensure our
promotional offers, point-of-sale sales activation, trade marketing
and sales force training and tools develop in line with the
standards we wish to attain. The Polish team is also successfully
navigating through recent regulations regarding trading hours and
outlet licensing.
We continued to drive innovation of our core brands, launching
three new flavours of Saska and two new Lubelska flavours shortly
after its relaunch. We also relaunched o dkowa de Luxe, our largest
clear vodka in impactful new packaging, plus introduced a Stock
Prestige "World Cup" limited edition. Within the combined Premium,
Super and Ultra-Premium vodka segments we have the fastest growing
brand portfolio with overall value growth of +16.9% YTD versus
market growth of +3.7%.
In addition to our growth in vodka, we grew volume and value YTD
in the fast-growing whisky category, YTD +4.3% volume and +5.2%
value with our partners Beam-Suntory, from whom our team were proud
to receive the prestigious Fred Noe Award. This is awarded to the
distributor that demonstrated game-changing behaviour on Jim Beam,
ensuring a long-lasting legacy in the market.
Overall, the actions we have taken are delivering results. At
the end of June our total market volume share YTD was 26.8% versus
24.7% last year, and YTD value share was 27.2% versus 25.7% last
year. We have started to outperform our main competitor in this
period, whilst the third main player in the market has increased
its downward trend.
Czech Republic
Revenue has grown on a reported basis by +8.4%, and on a
constant currency basis revenue is EUR31.9m versus EUR30.9m last
year (restated for IFRS 15), growth of +3.4%. Reported EBITDA is
consistent with last year, but on a constant currency basis has
decreased by EUR0.4m to EUR9.6m due to increased advertising and
promotional (A&P) investment. On a reported basis EBITDA margin
has reduced from 32.4% last year (restated for IFRS 15) to
30.0%.
In the market, total spirits grew both value +8.0% and volume
+5.0% YTD driven primarily by the Off-Trade channel. The four core
categories which Stock focuses on - Rum, Vodka, Herbal Bitters and
Whisky, together accounting for c.77% of total spirits value - all
grew value YTD. However, we saw a decline in herbal bitters volume
driven primarily by reduced promotional activity in economy and
mainstream in a number of major retailers.
In the On-Trade, the smoking ban, introduced in May 2017, has
reduced overall outlet numbers and consumption in the economy and
mainstream segments.
Given our scale in the main categories, Stock has been impacted
by the shift in promotional strategy by the retailers, which
impacted total volume YTD by -3.1%. Despite this, our innovation in
the premium segment, plus the benefits from previously-acquired
brands and execution of our Bo kov range strategy, delivered YTD
value growth of +3.0%. We also maintained market leadership and
achieved value share of 31.6% at YTD June 2018.
Our Bo kov brand strategy, offering a wider mix of variants
which increased choice and price range for the consumer across the
segments, is delivering tangible results. Despite the pressures on
total volumes, Stock grew value share YTD of Rum from 58.0% at LYTD
to 58.7% at YTD June 2018. The key success YTD in the Rum category
was the launch in Q1 of Bo kov Republica, which has already
achieved 28.8% value share of Imported Rum. Captain Morgan
Original, which Stock distributes in the Czech Republic on behalf
of Diageo, remains the number one Imported Rum on a MAT value-share
basis and a key growth driver, achieving value growth of +11.5%
YTD, well ahead of the total Rum category growth at +8.5%. During
the period, the local team has successfully navigated the
regulatory issues relating to the rum ether ban.
In the highly competitive vodka category, the continued benefits
from the acquisition of the spirits business of Bohemia Sekt in
2016 helped maintain our market value share in the vodka category
YTD at 28.2%. This is despite increasing competition from private
labels.
Our well-established partnership with Diageo and new
distribution agreement with Beam-Suntory, which commenced in Q1
2018, give us, we believe, the strongest Whisky portfolio in the
Czech Republic, where we achieved Whisky value share growth from
+9.5% LYTD to +10.9% at YTD June 2018.
These successes outweighed a YTD decline in total Herbal Bitters
of -14.8% value, driven primarily by the change in retailer
promotional strategy as well as some aggressive competitor pricing.
Our new Premium Herbal Bitter, Black Fox, launched in Q4 last year,
achieved 3.7% value share of Premium Herbal Bitters YTD,
counteracting in part the decline on Fernet Stock in
Mainstream.
Italy
Revenue has declined from EUR12.0m last year (as restated for
IFRS 15), to EUR11.5m. EBITDA in Italy is EUR1.2m versus EUR2.3m
for the same period last year, partly due to investment in
Keglevich, with an underlying EBITDA margin of 10.7% versus 19.5%
last year (as restated for IFRS 15).
In a difficult market, Stock Italia held volume and value share
in our key focus channel, the modern Off-Trade. Stock's total value
share YTD is 5.5% (versus 5.8% LYTD) and volume share is 5.8%
(versus 6.0% LYTD). We have made volume and value share gains YTD
in brandy and clear vodka. However, with the softening of the
market and growth of private label, we lost value share in
flavoured vodka-based liqueurs and Limoncello from 62.6% to 60.8%
and from 20.8% to 20.6% respectively at YTD June 2018.
During Q2 2018, we commenced the relaunch of the Keglevich fruit
flavoured range, supported by new packaging and significant
investment in a new "Pure Vodka, Pure Fruit" communications
campaign via a combination of digital and traditional media. This
aims to reach nearly 90% of our millennial target audience between
now and December 2018, plus a nationwide series of "Pure Party"
trial-building events in collaboration with one of Italy's biggest
radio stations, RDS, which has over six million listeners. Our
objective is to turnaround not just the brand but the flavoured
sub-category it leads.
Keglevich clear vodka has also been relaunched with an improved
quality, which is six times distilled, and more impactful
packaging. It has outperformed the category YTD in both volume and
value growth.
Stock 84 brandy's refreshed packaging across the range and
improved premium Stock XO range extension have driven YTD value and
volume growth ahead of the brandy category. The new XO has achieved
value growth of +34.3% YTD in a category declining by -3.6%.
Other Markets
Our other markets include Slovakia, Bosnia & Herzegovina and
Croatia together with our export operations, and the Baltic
distillery.
Revenue for the period was EUR13.5m, versus EUR12.4m in 2017 (as
restated for IFRS 15), growth of +8.5%. EBITDA for the six months
to the end of June 2018 was EUR1.6m (EUR0.7m LYTD).
In Slovakia, performance YTD is in line with our expectations.
Our premiumisation strategy in Slovakia is delivering good results.
We also saw significant growth in the whisky category through the
new distribution agreement with Beam-Suntory. We have increased Jim
Beam's value share YTD to 8.6% from 3.2% last year, moving it from
number eight to the number four brand in the total value
rankings.
Our Baltic distillery is now fully operational and the causes of
the incident last year which led to the facility ceasing production
of alcohol for a short period have been successfully addressed.
Investment in Irish Whiskey
Our 25% investment in Quintessential Brands Ireland Whiskey
Limited is performing to expectations, and the new distillery build
in the Liberties area of Dublin is scheduled to be officially
opened in late 2018. This development will include a
state-of-the-art distillery, alongside a visitor and brand
experience centre, providing an exciting brand home for The
Dubliner and The Dublin Liberties. The Irish whiskey brands will
shortly be rolled-out in all our key markets, allowing the Group
greater penetration into the fast-growing whisky sub-category in
each market.
Financial Performance
The Group has adopted two new IFRS requirements since 1 January
2018. In adopting IFRS 15 (Revenue from Contracts with Customers)
revenue for 2017 has been restated. The impact of the
implementation of IFRS 15 for the 6 months to 30 June has been to
decrease revenue in 2018 by EUR2.2m to EUR124.1m (2017: decrease of
EUR2.0m to EUR117.8m). This has impacted EBITDA margin, increasing
it by 0.4% in 2018 to 18.9% (2017: margin increase of 0.3% to
18.7%). There is no net impact on EBITDA.
There has been no material impact to the Group's financial
results from the adoption of IFRS 9 (Financial Instruments). The
Group obtains credit insurance in all the key markets in which it
operates.
Revenue has grown +5.3% to EUR124.1m (2017: EUR117.8m), driven
by positive increases across all growth levers, primarily mix
+2.7%; FX +1.8% and pricing +0.4%. The mix effect has been strong
in Poland, and price has been driven predominantly in the Czech
Republic with Bo kov Republica. Poland continues to be a highly
competitive market place.
The result of the improved pricing and mix on revenue has more
than compensated for the marginal increase in cost of goods sold
per litre, with a resulting 10bps improvement in gross margin at
49.1%.
Selling expenses have increased in the period by +6.6% as we
invest more in A&P behind NPD such as Black Fox and Bo kov
Republica in Czech, plus the repackaging and repositioning of
Keglevich fruit vodka in the Italian market, where a new
advertising campaign (digital and media) has recently been
launched. This is a multi-year programme of consistent investment
behind this brand. Lubelska, Saska, o dkowa de Luxe and Stock
Prestige also saw higher spend.
Other operating expenses have increased year-on-year but, at
2.5%, are below inflationary levels. Credit losses in the year are
minimal. In 2017, our International division suffered a loss in
Croatia, deemed as a one-off expense and where the cash has been
partially received in 2018.
Operating profit for the period is EUR18.0m, an increase of
+9.7% versus 2017 (EUR16.5m). EBITDA has improved by +6.2% versus
2017 at EUR23.4m with an EBITDA margin of 18.9% (2017: EUR22.0m;
18.7%).
Underlying net finance costs are higher than the prior year, as
drawings on our Group financing facility were higher. 2017
benefitted by EUR0.2m due to a provision release, and 2018
benefitted by EUR0.2m of exchange gains on borrowings.
As set out in the principal risks and uncertainties and in note
8 of the interim financial statements, the Group is exposed to a
number of tax risks in the countries in which it operates. In
recent years, the Group has observed developments in relevant
Polish tax laws and regulations. Taken as a whole, and in common
with other companies operating in Poland, this increases the
uncertainties relating to the treatment of historical positions.
The Group takes professional advice and continues to make
appropriate provisions where tax liabilities appear likely. The
effective tax rate of the Group, at 24.9%, is slightly lower, this
reflects the lower UK cost base.
Basic earnings per share are reported as 6.38 EUR cents for the
period versus 5.85 EUR cents for 2017, a growth of +9.1%.
Cash conversion continues to be a characteristic strength of the
business, and in H1 the Free Cash Flow conversion rate (being Free
Cash Flow as a % of EBITDA) was 147% (2017: 166%)(5) . At the end
of June 2018, net debt was EUR38.7m, EUR14.4m lower than at
December 2017 (EUR53.1m), with a leverage of 0.67x (December 2017:
0.94x).
Whilst working capital is always a focus for management,
decisions were made in the period to mitigate against certain
external risks facing the business. The rum ether issue in Czech is
well documented. Ahead of the eventual favourable decision from the
EU, it was decided to significantly increase Bo kov (tuzemsky local
rum) inventory levels. We also increased the level of bourbon
products purchased from our distribution partner Beam Suntory in
Poland, ahead of any potential tariffs imposed by the EU as a
result of the recent trade disagreements with the US. Both of these
have driven the increase in inventory levels by EUR8.7m compared to
December 2017. However, this position will unwind in the coming
months. We are working with our partners to understand and best
manage the financial and commercial impact of the recently
implemented bourbon tariffs.
Capital expenditure is marginally higher in H1 2018 versus the
prior period as the Group has invested in improvements in its IT
infrastructure; making our Group-wide network more resilient and
reliable.
The Company purchased 1.2m of its shares in the period, at a
cost of EUR3.5m, to settle future obligations under its share-based
reward schemes. These shares provide a natural hedge to the P&L
charge coming from the various share schemes in place under IFRS 2
(Classification and Measurement of Share-based Payment
Transactions).
The Board of Directors has agreed an interim dividend payment of
2.50 EUR cents per share, an increase of 5% on the prior year
interim dividend. The dividend will be paid on 21 September 2018,
with a record date of 31 August 2018 (shareholders on the register
at the close of business on 30 August 2018). The Euro: Sterling
exchange rate will be fixed on the record date.
Outlook
Taking into account our performance in these six months and
since the period-end, the Group is on track with its results for
the calendar year as a whole. The half-year financial performance
was enhanced (EUR0.8m benefit to reported EBITDA) by positive
impacts of foreign currency translation. We have no control over
these impacts and if they were to continue to be positive, future
year results could be further enhanced by the translation
effect.
As previously announced, the Group will be reporting on a 9
month financial period to the end of September 2018. The final
period-end results will be announced on 5 December 2018, along with
a management presentation of the results. Pro forma unaudited
P&L information will be provided for the 12 months to September
2017 and 2018 also on this date.
Going concern
After making enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable
expectation that the Company and its subsidiaries have adequate
resources to continue in operational existence for at least the
next twelve months. For this reason, they continue to adopt the
going concern basis in preparing the consolidated financial
information of the Group.
Principal Risks and uncertainties
The Board considers the key risks for the Group remain as:
-- Economic & Political risk, including Brexit - The Group's
results are affected by overall economic conditions in its key
geographic markets and the level of consumer confidence and
spending in those markets. The Group's operations are primarily in
Central and Eastern Europe markets where there is a risk of
economic and regulatory uncertainty which can directly or
indirectly impact the consumption of alcohol. Political, economic
and legal systems and conditions in emerging economies are
generally less predictable. The recent introduction of global trade
tariffs increases the uncertainty and risk. The extent of the
economic and political instability created by Brexit remains
difficult to predict. However, the United Kingdom is not a material
source of earnings for the Group.
-- Taxes - Increases in taxes, particularly increases to excise
duty rates and VAT, could adversely affect the demand for the
Group's products. The Group may be exposed to tax liabilities
resulting from tax audits in any of the key countries in which it
operates. The Group has in the past faced, currently faces and may
in the future face, audits and other challenges brought by tax
authorities which, if successful, could result in material tax
payments being required. Changes in tax laws and related
interpretations and increased enforcement actions and penalties may
alter the environment in which the Group does business. In
addition, certain tax positions taken by the Group are based on
industry practice and external tax advice and/or are based on
assumptions and involve a significant degree of judgement.
-- Strategic transactions - Key objectives of the Group are: (i)
the development of new products and variants; and (ii) expansion in
the Central and Eastern European region and certain other European
countries, through the acquisition of additional businesses.
Unsuccessful launches or failure by the Group to fulfil its
expansion plans or integrate completed acquisitions could have a
material adverse effect on the Group's growth potential and
performance.
-- Marketplace & Competition - The Group operates in a
highly competitive environment and faces competitive pressures from
both local and international spirits producers, which may result in
pressure on prices and loss of market share.
Further detail on the principal risks and uncertainties
affecting the business activities of the Group are set out on pages
20 to 25 in the Stock Spirits Group Annual Report 2017, a copy of
which is available on the Company's website at
www.stockspirits.com. In the view of the Board there is no material
change in these risks in respect of the remaining six months of the
year.
Responsibility statement of the Directors in respect of the
half-yearly financial report
We confirm to the best of our knowledge:
The condensed set of financial statements has been prepared in
accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting as adopted by
the EU
The interim management report includes a fair review of the
information required by:
a) DTR 4.2 7R of the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules,
being an indication of important events that have occurred during
the first six months of the financial year and their impact on the
condensed set of financial statements; and a description of the
principal risks and uncertainties for the remaining six months of
the year; and
b) DTR 4.2 8R of the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules,
being related party transactions that have taken place in the first
six months of the current financial year and that have materially
affected the financial position or performance of the entity during
that period; and any changes in the related party transactions
described in the last annual report that could do so.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors as at 8th August 2018 is as follows:
David Maloney (Chairman), Mirek Stachowicz (Chief Executive
Officer), Paul Bal (Chief Financial Officer), John Nicolson (Senior
Independent Non-Executive Director), Mike Butterworth (Independent
Non-Executive Director), Tomasz Blawat (Independent Non-Executive
Director), and Diego Bevilacqua (Independent Non-Executive
Director).
For and on behalf of the Board of Directors:
Mirek Stachowicz David Maloney
Chief Executive Officer Chairman
8th August 2018
Independent Review Report to Stock Spirits Group PLC
Conclusion
We have been engaged by the company to review the condensed set
of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the
six months ended 30 June 2018 which comprises the Interim Condensed
Consolidated Income Statement, Interim Condensed Consolidated
Statement of Comprehensive Income, Interim Condensed Consolidated
Statement of Financial Position, Interim Condensed Consolidated
Statement of Changes in Equity, Interim Condensed Consolidated
Statement of Cash Flows, and the related explanatory notes.
Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that
causes us to believe that the condensed set of financial statements
in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 30
June 2018 is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance
with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting as adopted by the EU and
the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules ("the DTR") of the
UK's Financial Conduct Authority ("the UK FCA").
Scope of review
We conducted our review in accordance with International
Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410 Review of
Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor
of the Entity issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the
UK. A review of interim financial information consists of making
enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and
accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review
procedures. We read the other information contained in the
half-yearly financial report and consider whether it contains any
apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the
information in the condensed set of financial statements.
A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted
in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) and
consequently does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would
become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in
an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.
Directors' responsibilities
The half-yearly financial report is the responsibility of, and
has been approved by, the directors. The directors are responsible
for preparing the half-yearly financial report in accordance with
the DTR of the UK FCA.
As disclosed in note 2, the annual financial statements of the
group are prepared in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU. The directors are
responsible for preparing the condensed set of financial statements
included in the half-yearly financial report in accordance with IAS
34 as adopted by the EU.
Our responsibility
Our responsibility is to express to the company a conclusion on
the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly
financial report based on our review.
The purpose of our review work and to whom we owe our
responsibilities
This report is made solely to the company in accordance with the
terms of our engagement to assist the company in meeting the
requirements of the DTR of the UK FCA. Our review has been
undertaken so that we might state to the company those matters we
are required to state to it in this report and for no other
purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept
or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company for our
review work, for this report, or for the conclusions we have
reached.
Simon Haydn-Jones (Senior Statutory Auditor)
For and on behalf of KPMG LLP
Chartered Accountants
Reading
8 August 2018
Interim condensed consolidated income statement
For the six months ended 30 June 2018
Six months Six months
ended 30 ended 30
June 2018 June 2017
Unaudited Unaudited
Restated*
Notes EUR000 EUR000
Revenue 5 124,059 117,821
Cost of goods sold (63,183) (60,130)
Gross profit 60,876 57,691
Selling expenses (27,755) (26,041)
Other operating expenses (14,896) (14,533)
Impairment loss on trade and other
receivables (70) (666)
Share of loss of equity-accounted
investees, net of tax 12 (106) -
Operating profit 18,049 16,451
Finance income 7 214 447
Finance costs 7 (1,363) (1,247)
Profit before tax 16,900 15,651
Income tax expense 8 (4,203) (3,957)
Profit for the period 12,697 11,694
----------- -----------
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the Parent 12,697 11,694
----------- -----------
Earnings per share, (Euro cents),
attributable to equity holders
of the Parent
Basic 9 6.38 5.85
Diluted 9 6.33 5.78
----------- -----------
* The Group has adopted IFRS 15 using the full retrospective
method, and therefore the requirements of IFRS 15 have been applied
to each period presented in the interim condensed consolidated
financial statements. Accordingly, revenue and selling expenses
presented for 2017 has been restated. Refer to note 3 for further
details.
Interim condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive
income
For the six months ended 30 June 2018
Six months Six months
ended 30 ended 30
June 2018 June 2017
Unaudited Unaudited
EUR000 EUR000
Profit for the period 12,697 11,694
Other comprehensive (expense)/income
Other comprehensive (expense)/income to
be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent
periods:
Exchange differences arising on translation
of foreign operations (7,057) 6,260
5,640 17,954
Other comprehensive income not to be reclassified
to profit or loss in subsequent periods:
Re-measurement gains on employee severance 4 -
indemnity
Total comprehensive income for the period,
net of tax 5,644 17,954
=========== ===========
Interim condensed consolidated statement of financial
position
As at 30 June 2018
30 June 31 December
2018 2017
Unaudited Audited
Notes EUR000 EUR000
Non-current assets
Intangible assets - goodwill 45,940 45,940
Intangible assets - other 10 306,514 311,614
Property, plant and equipment 11 46,110 50,871
Investment in equity accounted
investee 12 17,282 17,160
Deferred tax assets 1,810 4,151
Other assets 4,688 4,770
422,344 434,506
---------- --------------
Current assets
Inventories 31,756 23,101
Trade and other receivables 115,001 163,162
Other assets 135 -
Current tax assets 983 715
Cash and cash equivalents 13 50,383 61,341
198,258 248,319
---------- --------------
Total assets 620,602 682,825
========== ==============
Non-current liabilities
Financial liabilities 14 88,665 114,048
Other financial liabilities 1,692 2,600
Deferred tax liabilities 46,853 47,501
Provisions 1,056 1,051
Trade and other payables 335 416
138,601 165,616
---------- --------------
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 65,600 73,915
Financial liabilities 14 - 48
Other financial liabilities 1,314 83
Income tax payable 7,530 8,395
Indirect tax payable 61,629 79,256
Provisions 1,168 1,203
137,241 162,900
---------- --------------
Total liabilities 275,842 328,516
---------- --------------
Net assets 344,760 354,309
========== ==============
Interim condensed consolidated statement of financial
position
As at 30 June 2018
30 June 31 December
2018 2017
Unaudited Audited
Notes EUR000 EUR000
Capital and reserves
Issued capital 16 23,625 23,625
Share premium 16 - 183,541
Merger reserve 99,033 99,033
Consolidation reserve 5,130 5,130
Own share reserve 16 (3,370) (306)
Other reserve 16 10,961 11,277
Foreign currency translation
reserve 16 8,772 15,829
Retained earnings 200,609 16,180
Total equity 344,760 354,309
Total equity and liabilities 620,602 682,825
========== ==============
Interim condensed consolidated statement of changes in
equity
For the six months ended 30 June 2018
Foreign
Own currency
Issued Share Merger Consolidation share Other translation Retained Total
capital premium reserve reserve reserve reserve reserve earnings equity
EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000
Balance at
1 January 2017 23,625 183,541 99,033 5,130 (356) 9,335 7,519 20,752 348,579
Profit for
the period - - - - - - - 11,694 11,694
Other
comprehensive
income - - - - - - 6,260 - 6,260
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Total
comprehensive
income - - - - - - 6,260 11,694 17,954
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Share-based
payment
compensation
charge - - - - - 987 - - 987
Dividends - - - - - - - (10,892) (10,892)
Balance at
30 June 2017
(unaudited) 23,625 183,541 99,033 5,130 (356) 10,322 13,779 21,554 356,628
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Loss for the
period - - - - - - - (365) (365)
Other
comprehensive
income/(expense) - - - - - - 2,050 (5) 2,045
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Total
comprehensive
income/(expense) - - - - - - 2,050 (370) 1,680
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Share-based
payment
compensation
charge - - - - - 955 - - 955
Dividends - - - - - - - (4,838) (4,838)
Own shares
acquired for
incentive schemes - - - - (116) - - - (116)
Own shares
utilised for
incentive schemes - - - - 166 - - (166) -
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Balance at
31 December
2017 (audited) 23,625 183,541 99,033 5,130 (306) 11,277 15,829 16,180 354,309
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Profit for
the period - - - - - - - 12,697 12,697
Other
comprehensive
(expense)/income - - - - - - (7,057) 4 (7,053)
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Total
comprehensive
(expense)/income - - - - - - (7,057) 12,701 5,644
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Share-based
payment
compensation
credit - - - - - (316) - - (316)
Dividends - - - - - - - (11,345) (11,345)
Own shares
acquired for
incentive schemes - - - - (3,532) - - - (3,532)
Own shares
utilised for
incentive schemes - - - - 468 - - (468) -
Cancellation
of share premium - (183,541) - - - - - 183,541 -
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Balance at
30 June 2018
(unaudited) 23,625 - 99,033 5,130 (3,370) 10,961 8,772 200,609 344,760
-------- ---------- -------- -------------- -------- -------- ------------ --------- ---------
Interim condensed consolidated statement of cashflows
For the six months ended 30 June 2018
Six months Six months
ended 30 ended 30
June 2018 June 2017
Unaudited Unaudited
Notes EUR000 EUR000
Operating activities
Profit for the period 12,697 11,694
Adjustments to reconcile profit
for the period to net cashflows:
Income tax expense recognised in
income statement 8 4,203 3,957
Interest expense and bank commissions 7 1,363 1,239
Loss on disposal of tangible and
intangible assets 2 4
Other financial income 7 (64) (447)
Depreciation of property, plant
and equipment 11 4,574 4,940
Amortisation of intangible assets 10 687 653
Net foreign exchange (gain)/loss 7 (150) 8
Share-based compensation (credit)/charge (316) 987
Share of loss of equity-accounted
investees, net of tax 12 106 -
(Decrease)/increase in provisions (30) 179
----------- -----------
23,072 23,214
Working capital adjustments
Decrease in trade receivables and
other assets 48,108 27,431
Increase in inventories (8,655) (3,524)
Decrease in trade payables and
other liabilities (26,202) (9,276)
13,251 14,631
Cash generated by operations 36,323 37,845
Income tax paid (3,074) (3,567)
Net cashflow from operating activities 33,249 34,278
----------- -----------
Investing activities
Interest received 7 64 195
Payments to acquire intangible
assets 10 (867) (493)
Purchase of property, plant and
equipment 11 (1,067) (813)
Net cashflow from investing activities (1,870) (1,111)
----------- -----------
Financing activities
Repayment of borrowings 14 (23,901) (44,603)
Interest paid (1,427) (1,245)
Purchase of own shares 16 (3,532) -
Dividends paid to equity holders
of the parent (11,345) (10,892)
Net cashflow from financing activities (40,205) (56,740)
----------- -----------
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (8,826) (23,573)
Cash and cash equivalents at the
start of the period 61,341 74,956
Effect of exchange rates on cash
and cash equivalents (2,132) (1,450)
Cash and cash equivalents at the
end of the financial period 13 50,383 49,933
=========== ===========
Notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial
statements
for the six months ended 30 June 2018
1. Corporate information
The interim condensed consolidated financial statements of Stock
Spirits Group PLC (the Company) and its subsidiaries (the Group)
for the six months ended 30 June 2018 were authorised for issue in
accordance with a resolution of the directors on 8 August 2018.
Stock Spirits Group PLC is domiciled in England. The Company's
registered office is at Solar House, Mercury Park, Wooburn Green,
Buckinghamshire, HP10 0HH, United Kingdom.
The Company, together with its subsidiaries, is involved in the
production and distribution of branded spirits in Central and
Eastern Europe.
2. Basis of preparation
The interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the
six months ended 30 June 2018 have been prepared on a going concern
basis in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting as
adopted by the European Union.
The annual financial statements of the group are prepared in
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs)
as adopted by the EU. As required by the Disclosure and
Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority, the
condensed set of financial statements has been prepared applying
the accounting policies and presentation that were applied in the
preparation of the Company's published consolidated financial
statements for the year ended 31 December 2017, with the exception
of the application of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers
and IFRS 9 Financial Instruments. This is the first set of the
Group's financial statements where IFRS 15 and IFRS 9 have been
applied. Changes to significant accounting policies are described
in note 3.
The financial information contained in this interim statement,
which is unaudited, does not constitute statutory accounts as
defined by the Companies Act 2006. The interim condensed
consolidated financial statements do not include all the
information and disclosures required in the annual financial
statements, and should be read in conjunction with the Group's
annual financial statements as at 31 December 2017. The annual
financial statements of the Group were prepared in accordance with
IFRS as adopted by the European Union and can be found on the
Group's website at www.stockspirits.com.
The financial information for the six months ended 30 June 2018
and the comparative financial information for the six months ended
30 June 2017 has not been audited, but has been reviewed. The
comparative figures for the financial year ended 31 December 2017
are not the company's statutory accounts for that financial year.
Those accounts have been reported on by the Company's auditor and
delivered to the registrar of companies. The report was (i)
unqualified (ii) did not include a reference to any matters to
which the auditor drew attention by way of emphasis without
qualifying their report, and (iii) did not contain a statement
under section 498 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 2006.
Having made appropriate enquiries, the Directors have a
reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to
continue in existence for the foreseeable future. Accordingly it is
appropriate to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the
interim condensed consolidated financial statements.
The consolidated financial information is presented in Euros
('EUR'). The closing foreign exchange rates used to prepare these
financial statements are as follows:
30 June 2018 30 June 2017 31 December
2017
PLN 4.37 4.23 4.17
CZK 26.00 26.19 25.55
GBP 0.89 0.88 0.89
CHF 1.16 1.09 1.17
3. Significant accounting policies
The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the
interim condensed consolidated financial statement are consistent
with those followed in the preparation of the Group's annual
consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December
2017, except for the adoption of new standards and interpretations
and revision of the existing standards as of 1 January 2018 noted
below.
New/revised standards and interpretations adopted in 2018
The following amendments to existing standards and
interpretations were effective in the period to 30 June 2018, but
were either not applicable to or did not have a material impact on
the Group:
Amendments to IFRS 2: Classification and Measurement of
Share-based Payment Transactions
Amendments to IFRS 4: Applying IFRS 9 Financial instruments
with IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts
Amendments to IFRS 40: Transfers of Investment Properties
Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2014 - 2016 Cycle
- minor amendments to IFRS 1 and ISA 28
IFRIC Interpretation 22: Foreign Currency Transactions
and Advance Consideration
The Directors do not expect the adoption of the above standards
and interpretations to have a material impact on the interim
condensed consolidated financial statements in the period
of initial application.
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers
IFRS 15 provides a single, principle-based, five-step model
to be applied to all sales contracts, based on the transfer
of control of goods and services to customers. It replaced
IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts and related
interpretations.
Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable
that the economic benefits will flow to the Group and the
revenue can be reliably measured.
Sale of goods
The Group has concluded that it is the principal in its
revenue arrangements as it is the primary obligor in these
revenue arrangements, has pricing latitude and is also
exposed to inventory and credit risks.
As such, revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when
control is transferred to the customer. i.e. when all the
following conditions are satisfied:
-- the Group has transferred to the buyer the significant
risks and rewards of ownership of the goods; in general
this is deemed to occur when customers take delivery of
the goods
-- the Group retains neither continuing managerial involvement
to the degree usually associated with ownership nor effective
control over the goods sold;
-- the amount of revenue can be measured reliably;
-- it is probable that the economic benefits associated
with the transaction will flow to the entity; and
-- the costs incurred or to be incurred in respect of the
transaction can be measured reliably.
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration
received or receivable, taking into account contractually
defined terms of payment and excluding taxes or duty which
are generally recognised at the point of sale.
Revenue is reduced for estimated customer returns, rebates and
other similar allowances to customers, the measurement of which is
determined by contractual arrangements with customers. Sales
incentives are recognised in the same period as the related revenue
is recorded, and comprise:
-- Discounts and rebates - which are sales incentives to
customers to encourage them to purchase increased volumes and are
related to total volumes purchased and sales growth
-- Marketing services - which include merchandising, slotting and listing fees.
-- Sales support for promotional activities - which include
payments to customers, distributors and external agencies
The Group has adopted IFRS 15 using the full retrospective
method, and therefore the requirements of IFRS 15 have been applied
to each period presented in the interim condensed consolidated
financial statements. Accordingly, the information presented for
2017 has been restated.
The impact of IFRS 15 to the Group is in respect of the
presentation of payments made to customers to support promotions
and marketing activities. These were previously recorded as selling
expenses. Following the adoption of IFRS 15 these costs are treated
as a reduction to revenue. There is no further impact to the
nature, timing or satisfaction of performance obligations.
There has been no restatement of the interim consolidated
statement of financial position or interim condensed consolidated
statement of changes in equity as the impact of IFRS 15 is limited
to a reclassification of such payments for promotions and marketing
activities from selling expenses to revenue. There is also no
impact to the comparatives included in the interim condensed
consolidated statement of cashflows.
Impact on the income statement and consolidated statement of
comprehensive income 2017 comparatives
For the six months ended 30
June 2017 As reported
EUR'000 in 2017 Adjustments Restated
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------
Revenue 119,811 (1,990) 117,821
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------
Gross profit 59,681 (1,990) 57,691
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------
Selling expenses (28,031) 1,990 (26,041)
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------
Operating profit 16,451 - 16,451
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------
Profit before tax 15,651 - 15,651
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------
Profit for the period 11,694 - 11,694
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------
Total comprehensive income
for the period 17,954 - 17,954
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ---------
Impact on external revenue reported in segmental analysis - 2017
comparatives
For the six months ended 30 As reported
June 2017 in 2017 Adjustments Restated
EUR'000
----------------------------- ------------ -------------- -----------
Poland 63,985 (63) 63,922
----------------------------- ------------ -------------- -----------
Czech Republic 29,831 (385) 29,446
----------------------------- ------------ -------------- -----------
Italy 12,714 (710) 12,004
----------------------------- ------------ -------------- -----------
Other Operational 13,281 (832) 12,449
----------------------------- ------------ -------------- -----------
Corporate - - -
----------------------------- ------------ -------------- -----------
Total 119,811 (1,990) 117,821
----------------------------- ------------ -------------- -----------
As above there is no impact on operating profit.
The following table summarises the impact of adopting IFRS 15 on
the income statement and consolidated statement of comprehensive
income for the six months ending 30 June 2018 for each of the lines
affected. There was no material impact on the Group's interim
statement of financial position or interim statement of cash flows
for the six month period ended 30 June 2018.
Impact on the income statement and consolidated statement of
comprehensive income
Amounts
before
For the six months ended 30 adoption
June 2018 of IFRS
EUR'000 As reported Adjustments 15
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ----------
Revenue 124,059 2,224 126,283
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ----------
Gross profit 60,876 2,224 63,100
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ----------
Selling expenses (27,755) (2,224) (29,979)
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ----------
Operating profit 18,049 - 18,049
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ----------
Profit before tax 16,900 - 16,900
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ----------
Profit for the period 12,697 - 12,697
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ----------
Total comprehensive income
for the period 5,644 - 5,644
----------------------------- ------------ ------------ ----------
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments
This standard replaces IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition
and Measurement. IFRS 9 sets out requirements for recognising and
measuring financial assets and financial liabilities.
The adoption of IFRS 9 has not impacted the Group's accounting
policies related to financial liabilities, however financial assets
classified as loans and receivables under IAS 39 are now measured
at amortised cost. These include cash and cash equivalents, trade
and other receivables and customs deposits.
Financial assets are measured at amortised cost using the
effective interest method. The amortised cost is reduced by
impairment losses. Interest income, foreign exchange gains and
losses and impairment are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or
loss on derecognition is recognised in profit or loss.
The effect of adopting IFRS 9 on the carrying amounts of
financial assets relates solely to the new impairment requirements,
as described further below. The requirements of IFRS 9 have been
adopted without restating comparative information, but are
recognised in the opening balance sheet at 1 January 2018.
IFRS 9 replaces the 'incurred loss' model in IAS 39 with a
forward looking 'expected credit loss' (ECL) model.
ECLs are based on the difference between the contractual
cashflows due in accordance with the contract and all the cashflows
that the Group expects to receive. The shortfall is then discounted
at an approximation to the asset's original effective interest
rate.
For Trade and other receivables, the Group has applied the
standard's simplified approach and has calculated ECLs based on
lifetime expected credit losses. The Group has established a
provision matrix that is based on the Group's historical credit
loss experience, adjusted for forward-looking factors specific to
the debtors and the economic environment.
There has not been a material impact to the Group's interim
condensed consolidated financial statements as a consequence of
adopting IFRS 9.
The provision for bad debts is not considered to be a critical
accounting judgement or key source of estimation uncertainty. While
the actual level of debt collected may differ from the estimated
levels of recovery this is not expected to be by a material amount.
In addition to applying the ECL model, each subsidiary evaluates
the collectability of trade receivables at each balance sheet date
and makes any specific provisions where there is objective evidence
of impairment.
Presentation of impairment
Loss allowances for financial assets measured at amortised cost
are deducted from the gross carrying amount of the assets.
Impairment losses related to trade and other receivables are
presented separately in the statement of profit and loss and other
comprehensive income. The comparative period has been restated
accordingly, with impairment losses being reallocated from Other
operating expenses.
4. Use of estimates and judgements
The preparation of the interim financial information requires
management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that effect
the application of policies and reported amounts of certain assets,
liabilities, revenues and expenses. These are discussed on page 121
of the Group's 2017 annual financial statements. Estimates and
underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions
to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the
estimate is revised, if the revision affects only that period, or
in the period of revision and future periods if the revision
affects both the current and future periods.
5. Segmental analysis
In identifying its operating segments, management follows the
Group's geographic split, representing the main products traded by
the Group. The Group is considered to have five reportable
operating segments: Poland, Czech Republic, Italy, Other
Operational and Corporate. The Other Operational segment consists
of the results of operations of the Slovakian, International and
Baltic Distillery entities. The Corporate segment consists of
expenses and central costs incurred by non-trading Group
entities.
Each of these operating segments is managed separately as each
of these geographic areas require different marketing approaches.
All inter-segment transfers are carried out at arm's length prices.
The measure of revenue reported to the chief operating
decision-maker to assess performance is based on external revenue
for each operating segment and excludes intra-Group revenues. The
measure of EBITDA reported to the chief operating decision-maker to
assess performance is based on operating profit and excludes
intra-Group profits, depreciation and amortisation.
The Group has presented a reconciliation from profit before tax
per the consolidated income statement to EBITDA below:
For the six months ended 30 June 2018 For the six months ended 30 June 2017
EUR000 EUR000
Profit before tax 16,900 15,651
Share of loss of equity-accounted 106 -
investees, net of tax
Net finance charges 1,149 800
-------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
18,155 16,451
Depreciation and amortisation (note
10,11) 5,261 5,593
-------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
EBITDA 23,416 22,044
-------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
EBITDA margin 18.9% 18.7%
-------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
Total assets and liabilities are not disclosed as this
information is not provided by segment to the chief operating
decision-maker on a regular basis.
Poland Czech Italy Other Operational Corporate Total
Republic
30 June 2018 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000
External revenue 67,088 31,929 11,536 13,506 - 124,059
------- ---------- ------- ------------------ ---------- --------
EBITDA 17,741 9,577 1,235 1,597 (6,734) 23,416
------- ---------- ------- ------------------ ---------- --------
Poland Czech Italy Other Operational Corporate Total
Republic
30 June 2017 - restated EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000
External revenue 63,922 29,446 12,004 12,449 - 117,821
------- ---------- ------- ------------------ ---------- --------
EBITDA 16,863 9,545 2,339 742 (7,445) 22,044
------- ---------- ------- ------------------ ---------- --------
External revenue by operating segment in 2017 has been restated
for the impact of IFRS 15. Refer to note 3 for further details.
There is no impact to EBITDA by operating segment, however as a
consequence of the restatement of revenue, EBITDA margin has
improved by 0.3% to 18.7%.
Disaggregation of revenue is by operating segment only. This
also equates to primary geographical market. Revenue other than
from sales of branded spirits represents a very small proportion of
total revenue. Products are largely transferred at a point in time
and so there is limited variance in the timing of revenue
recognition.
Seasonality
Sales of spirits beverages are somewhat seasonal, with the
fourth calendar quarters accounting for the highest sales volumes.
The volume of sales may be affected by both weather conditions and
public holidays.
6. Free cashflow
The Group defines free cashflow as net cash generated from
operating activities (excluding income tax paid), plus the proceeds
from the sale of property, plant and equipment and proceeds from
the disposal of intangible assets less cash used for the
acquisition of property, plant or equipment and for the acquisition
of intangible assets. Free cashflow conversion is free cashflow as
a percentage of EBITDA.
The use of this alternative performance measure is consistent
with how institutional investors consider the performance of the
Group. This measure is not defined in IFRS and thus may not be
comparable to similarly titled measures by other companies.
Free cashflow is a supplemental measure of the Group's
performance and liquidity that is not required to be presented in
accordance with IFRS.
For the six months ended 30 June 2018 For the six months ended
30 June 2017
EUR000 EUR000
Cash generated from operations 36,323 37,845
Payments to acquire property, plant and equipment (1,067) (813)
Payments to acquire intangible assets (867) (493)
Free cashflow 34,389 36,539
Free cashflow conversion 146.9% 165.8%
-------------------------------------- -------------------------
7. Finance costs and income
For the For the
six months six months
ended 30 ended 30
June 2018 June 2017
EUR000 EUR000
Finance income:
Foreign currency exchange gain 150 -
Interest income 64 447
Total finance income 214 447
============ ============
Finance costs:
Interest payable on bank overdrafts
and loans 790 703
Bank commissions, guarantees and
other payables 336 337
Other interest expense 237 199
Foreign currency exchange loss - 8
Total finance costs 1,363 1,247
============ ============
Net finance costs 1,149 800
============ ============
8. Income taxes
The Group calculates the period income tax expense using the tax
rate that would be applicable to the expected total earnings for
the full 9 month reporting period to 30 September 2018. The major
components of income tax expense in the interim condensed
consolidated income statement are:
For the For the six
six months months ended
ended 30 30 June 2017
June 2018
EUR000 EUR000
Current income tax
Current income tax charge 2,029 1,901
Tax credit relating to prior periods (39) (197)
Deferred income tax
Relating to the origination and
reversal of temporary differences 2,213 2,253
Total tax expense 4,203 3,957
============ ==============
The Group is an international drinks business and, as such,
transfer pricing arrangements are in place to cover the recharging
of management and stewardship costs, as well as the sale of
finished goods between Group companies.
The Group has undertaken a review of potential tax risks and
current tax assessments, and whilst it is not possible to predict
the outcome of any pending enquiries, adequate provisions are
considered to have been included in the Group accounts to cover any
expected estimated future settlements.
Common with many groups operating across multiple jurisdictions,
certain tax positions related to intercompany transactions may be
subject to challenge by the relevant tax authority. The Group has
recognised provisions totalling EUR6,848,000 (2017: EUR7,514,000)
in relation to transfer pricing risks where it is not probable that
tax positions taken will be accepted. The reduction is mainly due
to the payment of the tax assessed in the Czech Republic as
explained below.
Tax risks include those in respect of our Italian business,
Stock S.r.l. The Italian tax authorities have open inquiries
covering the years 2006 - 2010.
During 2017, a tax judgement was made against the Group's Czech
subsidiary, Stock Plzen-Bozkov s.r.o. and therefore provisions were
made for income tax due of EUR636,000 and associated interest and
penalties of EUR631,000. The tax and penalties were paid in May
2018, notwithstanding this, Stock Plzen-Bozkov are vigorously
contesting the assessment.
Settlement has been reached on the inquiry into the Group's
subsidiary, Baltic Distillery GmbH's 2015 corporate tax return, and
the subsidiary has agreed to pay tax of EUR298,000 and interest of
EUR33,000. This is fully covered in our provisions.
In 2016, the Group's Polish subsidiary, Stock Polska Sp. z.o.o.,
received notification from the Polish tax authorities of the
commencement of an inquiry covering its 2013 corporate income tax
return. To date, there has been no formal assessment although
written enquiries were received in March 2018. The enquiries cover
a number of items, the most significant of which relates to
corporate restructuring transactions carried out in Poland around
the time of the IPO which gave rise to tax deductible costs in the
form of the amortisation of intellectual property ("IP") assets.
The Group obtained individual tax rulings relevant for the
restructuring process prior to implementation. Whilst it is the
case that there could be a risk of material exposure arising from
this inquiry, the Group does not consider there to be any basis to
the challenge on this matter by the Polish tax authority and has
thus responded to them accordingly. No provision has been recorded
in relation to the IP inquiry since, at this stage, the Group
considers it to be highly unlikely that any liability will
ultimately crystallise.
Although our transfer pricing is performed on an arms' length
basis, it is management's view that there is significant risk of
further assessments regarding intercompany transactions and thus a
provision is carried for this eventuality.
9. Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing the
profit for the period attributable to ordinary equity holders of
the parent by the weighted average number of ordinary shares
outstanding during the period.
Diluted earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing
the profit attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent by
the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during
the period plus the weighted average number of ordinary shares that
would be issued on conversion of all the dilutive potential
ordinary shares into ordinary shares.
Details of the earnings per share are set out below:
For the six months ended 30 June 2018 For the six months ended 30 June 2017
Basic earnings per share
Profit attributable to the equity
shareholders of the Company
(EUR'000) 12,697 11,694
Weighted average number of ordinary
shares in issue for basic earnings
per share ('000) 198,884 199,937
-------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
Basic earnings per share (EUR cents) 6.38 5.85
-------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share
Profit attributable to the equity
shareholders of the Company
(EUR'000) 12,697 11,694
Weighted average number of diluted
ordinary shares adjusted for the
effect of dilution ('000) 200,586 202,217
-------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
Diluted earnings per share (EUR
cents) 6.33 5.78
-------------------------------------- --------------------------------------
Reconciliation of basic to diluted ordinary shares
Weighted average number of ordinary shares ('000) 200,000 200,000
Effect of own shares held ('000) (1,116) (63)
--------- ---------
Basic weighted average number of ordinary shares ('000) 198,884 199,937
Effect of options ('000) 1,702 2,280
Diluted weighted average number of ordinary shares ('000) 200,586 202,217
--------- ---------
There have been no other transactions involving ordinary shares
between the reporting date and the date of authorisation of these
financial statements.
10. Intangible assets - other
Customer
Relationships Software
Brands and Trademark Total
EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000
At 1 January 2018, cost,
net of accumulated amortisation 307,122 1,035 3,457 311,614
Additions - - 867 867
Amortisation expense - (59) (628) (687)
Foreign currency adjustment (5,219) - (61) (5,280)
At 30 June 2018, cost,
net of accumulated amortisation 301,903 976 3,635 306,514
========== =============== =========== ==========
Customer
Relationships Software
Brands and Trademark Total
EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000
At 1 January 2017, cost,
net of accumulated amortisation 298,660 1,042 3,051 302,753
Additions 207 110 1,059 1,376
Disposals - - (60) (60)
Transfers - - 513 513
Amortisation expense - (115) (1,203) (1,318)
Foreign currency adjustment 8,255 (2) 97 8,350
At 31 December 2017, cost,
net of accumulated amortisation 307,122 1,035 3,457 311,614
========== =============== =========== ==========
11. Property, plant and equipment
The movement in property, plant and equipment for the six-month
period ended 30 June 2018 was as follows:
Assets
Land and Technical Other under
buildings equipment equipment construction Total
EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000
At 1 January 2018,
cost, net of accumulated
depreciation 24,328 23,125 2,867 551 50,871
Additions 151 824 381 (113) 1,243
Transfers 57 83 5 (145) -
Disposals (1) - (1) - (2)
Depreciation expense (482) (2,613) (1,479) - (4,574)
Foreign currency adjustment (609) (734) (38) (47) (1,428)
At 30 June 2018, cost,
net of accumulated
depreciation 23,444 20,685 1,735 246 46,110
=========== =========== =========== ============== =========
Land and Technical Assets
buildings equipment Other equipment under construction Total
EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000
At 1 January 2017,
cost, net of accumulated
depreciation 23,640 25,197 5,031 1,837 55,705
Additions 501 1,132 514 1,563 3,710
Transfers 33 1,948 434 (2,928) (513)
Disposals - (558) (78) - (636)
Depreciation expense (1,055) (5,638) (3,201) - (9,894)
Foreign currency
adjustment 1,209 1,044 167 79 2,499
At 31 December
2017, cost, net
of accumulated
depreciation 24,328 23,125 2,867 551 50,871
=========== =========== ================ ==================== =========
12. Investment in equity-accounted investees
On 17 July 2017, Stock Spirits entered into an agreement with
Quintessential Brands Group for the acquisition of a 25% equity
interest in Quintessential Brands Ireland Whiskey Limited for a
cash consideration of up to EUR18,333,000. Consideration comprised
of an initial cash payment of EUR15,000,000 for 25% of the equity
investment, and a contingent consideration of up to EUR3,333,000
which is payable over a five year period, subject to performance
conditions.
The fair value of the contingent cash consideration at the
acquisition date was calculated as EUR2,491,000, and goodwill of
EUR425,000 was recognised. The fair value of the cash consideration
at 30 June 2018 has been revised to EUR2,719,000, with EUR1,240,000
being included in current financial liabilities and EUR1,479,000 in
non-current financial liabilities.
The Group's share of the loss of Quintessential Brands Ireland
Whiskey Limited for the period is EUR106,000 (31 December 2017:
loss of EUR331,000). There has been a corresponding reduction in
the carrying value of the investment.
13. Cash and cash equivalents
For the purposes of the cash flow statement, cash and cash
equivalents include cash on hand and in banks, net of outstanding
bank overdrafts. Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the
financial period/year as shown in the cash flow statement can be
reconciled to the related items in statement of financial position
as follows:
30 June 31 December 2017
2018
EUR000 EUR000
Cash and bank balances 50,383 61,341
-------- -----------------
Cash and cash equivalents are denominated in the following
currencies:
30 June 31 December 2017
2018
EUR000 EUR000
Sterling 2,429 1,445
Euro 8,742 7,883
Polish Zloty 14,621 24,610
Czech Koruna 19,288 21,958
Other currencies 5,303 5,445
Total 50,383 61,341
======== =================
14. Financial liabilities
Non-current
Current Non-current Current 31
30 June 30 June 31 December
2018 2018 December 2017 2017
EUR000 EUR000 EUR000 EUR000
Unsecured - at amortised cost
HSBC loan - 88,824 - 114,191
Cost of arranging bank loan - (159) (53) (143)
Interest payable - - 101 -
- 88,665 48 114,048
----------------------------------------- ----------- -------------- -----------
As well as the revolving credit facility (RCF) drawings of
EUR88,824,000 as at 30 June 2018 (31 December 2017:
EUR114,191,000), an additional EUR10,551,000 (31 December 2017:
EUR14,250,000) of the RCF was utilised for customs guarantees in
Italy and Germany. These custom guarantees reduce the available RCF
facility but do not constitute a balance sheet liability.
15. Financial assets and liabilities
Set out below is a comparison by category of carrying amounts
which approximates fair values of all of the Group's financial
instruments that are carried in the financial statements.
As at 30 June 2018
Financial assets
and liabilities Total book
at amortised
cost value
EUR000 EUR000
Financial assets:
Cash 50,383 50,383
Trade and other receivables 108,857 108,857
Customs deposits 4,823 4,823
Financial liabilities:
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings:
(i) Finance lease obligations (287) (287)
(ii) Floating rate borrowings -
banks (88,665) (88,665)
Trade and other payables (62,096) (62,096)
Contingent consideration (2,719) (2,719)
As at 31 December 2017
Loans Amortised Total book
and
receivables cost value
EUR000 EUR000 EUR000
Financial assets:
Cash 61,341 - 61,341
Trade and other receivables 160,224 - 160,224
Customs deposits 4,770 - 4,770
Financial liabilities:
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings:
(i) Finance lease obligations - (192) (192)
(ii) Floating rate borrowings -
banks - (113,995) (113,995)
Trade and other payables - (72,285) (72,285)
Contingent consideration - (2,491) (2,491)
16. Authorised and issued share capital and reserves
Share capital of Stock Spirits Group PLC
30 June 31 December
2018 2017
Number of ordinary shares
Ordinary shares of GBP0.10 each, issued
and fully paid 200,000,000 200,000,000
------------ ------------
Ordinary shares (EUR000) 23,625 23,625
------------ ------------
Share premium
It was confirmed on 12 June 2018 by the High Court of Justice of
England and Wales that the Share Premium Account has been
cancelled, crediting the sum of EUR183,541,000 to retained
earnings. This amount is now considered to be distributable. The
cancellation of the Share Premium was approved by shareholders at
the Annual General Meeting held on 22 May 2018.
Other reserve
Other reserves include the credit to equity for equity-settled
share-based payments. The credit for the period ended 30 June 2018
was EUR316,000 (31 December 2017: charge of EUR1,942,000).
Own share reserve
The own share reserve comprises the cost of the Company's shares
held by the Group. The Employment Benefit Trust (EBT) holds these
shares on behalf of the employees until the options are exercised.
During the half year ended 30 June 2018, 1,200,000 shares have been
purchased by the EBT on behalf of the Group, in order to satisfy
the vesting of options under the current share schemes. This has
resulted in an increase in the own share reserve of EUR3,532,000.
At 30 June 2018 the Group held 1,691,991 of the Company's shares
(31 December 2017: 822,246).
On the exercise of options in the period EUR468,000 was credited
to the own share reserve, with the corresponding charge to retained
earnings.
The EBT holds the shares at cost.
Foreign currency translation reserve
30 June 31 December
2018 2017
EUR000 EUR000
Foreign currency translation reserve 8,772 15,829
-------- ------------
Exchange differences relating to the translation from the
functional currencies of the Group's foreign subsidiaries into
Euros are accounted for by entries made directly to the foreign
currency translation reserve.
17. Dividend
An interim dividend of 2.50 Euro cents per ordinary share has
been declared by the Board in respect of the half year ended 30
June 2018 and will be paid on 21 September 2018. The dividend
payable has not been recognised as a liability at 30 June 2018.
18. Related party transactions
In considering each possible related party relationship,
attention is directed to the substance of the relationship, not
merely the legal form.
Transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries, which are
related parties, have been eliminated on consolidation. There were
no other related party transactions during the six month period
ended 30 June 2018 (30 June 2017: EURnil), as defined by
International Accounting Standard No 24 'Related Party
Disclosures', except for key management compensation and
transactions with Quintessential Brands Ireland Whiskey Limited and
its related entities.
The following table provides the total amount of transactions
that have been entered into with Quintessential Brands Ireland
Whiskey Limited and its related entities for the period to 30 June
2018. There were no such transactions in 2017.
Sales of Purchases Amounts owed Amounts owed
June 2018 goods/services of goods/services by related to related
EUR'000 EUR'000 parties parties
EUR'000 EUR'000
Subsidiaries:
Stock S.r.l. 2 8 - -
Stock d.o.o. - 52 - 30
Stock Slovensko - 32 - -
s.r.o.
---------------- ------------------- ------------- -------------
2 92 - 30
---------------- ------------------- ------------- -------------
The related party transactions for the year ended 31 December
2017 as defined by International Accounting Standard No 24 'Related
Party Disclosures' are disclosed in note 31 of the Stock Spirits
Group PLC Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2017.
19. Commitments for capital expenditure
Commitments for the acquisition of property, plant and equipment
as of 30 June 2018 are EUR429,000 (30 June 2017: EUR35,000).
(1) The adoption of IFRS15 in the year has resulted in a
restatement of prior year financials. See note 3 in the Unaudited
Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
(2) We have referenced EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure in the
financial highlights section. For details of the reconciliation of
EBITDA to GAAP financial numbers please refer to notes 5 and 6 in
the Unaudited Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements
(3) Leverage is the ratio of net debt to EBITDA
(4) Note: All market data for Poland, Czech and Slovakia as per
Nielsen June 2018; for Italy as per IRI June 2018
(5) See note 6 in the Unaudited Interim Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements for a calculation of Free Cash Flow and a
calculation of the conversion rate
This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the
London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct
Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United
Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution
of this information may apply. For further information, please
contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.
END
IR LLFVRTRIDIIT
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